In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it is browned.
Add the onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pot and stir together. Cook for about 3 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, sea salt, paprika, pepper, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir all ingredients together until combined.
Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a simmer.
Once the mixture is simmering add in the elbow pasta and stir everything together. Place a lid on top of the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
After the goulash has been cooking for 10 minutes, add in the canned corn and stir until combined. Place the lid back on top of the pot and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked remove from heat. Reserve a cup of the liquid before stirring in the sour cream and cheddar cheese.
Add the reserved liquid to the goulash if needed. Stir everything together until combined. Serve hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or parsley on top, if desired.